perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of perspiring

2

: a saline fluid secreted by the sweat glands : sweat

Examples of perspiration in a Sentence

She wiped the perspiration from her forehead.

Recent Examples on the Web

Because perspiration slows you down long before precipitation, outdoor gear needs to efficiently help the body stay warm, fresh and comfortable while eliminating moisture build-up. —Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 10 Nov. 2025

This steady stream of passive perspiration keeps the system running even when the user is still. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Nov. 2025

Although his shoes contained 10 ounces of highly explosive material, his attempt to light the fuse failed because of foot perspiration. —Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

The dirty clothes are typically filled with all the icks: perspiration, body oils, dirt, and skin cells that attract bacteria, and with it, funky smells. —Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for perspiration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perspiring

2

: a salty fluid given off by the sweat glands : sweat

Medical Definition

perspiration

noun

per·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌpər-spə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perspiring

2

: a saline fluid that is secreted by the sweat glands, that consists chiefly of water containing sodium chloride and other salts, nitrogenous substances (as urea), carbon dioxide, and other solutes, and that serves both as a means of excretion and as a regulator of body temperature through the cooling effect of its evaporation